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Belize combines the best of what Central America has to offer: jungles, beaches, Maya history and ancient ruins, wildlife and nature, adventure and relaxation. This tiny nation at the base of the Yucatan Peninsula contains the second largest barrier reef system in the world, beautiful and ecologically rich cayes and atolls, and an immense diversity of forests, from pine forests to lowland rainforests.

Belize comprises 85 ecosystems for naturalists to investigate. Travelers can venture north to the Orange Walk District to explore wetland diversity and participate in global discussions on the ecological health of wetlands, or south to Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the world’s first jaguar preserve. This amazing diversity of habitats supports Neotropical fauna like jaguars, tapirs, and howler monkeys, plus birds like toucans, hummingbirds, and the Jabiru, the tallest flying bird in Central and South America.

For adventurers, Belize offers rafting, rappelling, climbing, and kayaking. Go zip lining through the jungle, or snorkel the spectacular marine environment that includes fringe reefs, mangroves, sea-grass beds and open ocean environments. Belize is also home to a number of caves, including the famous Actun Tunichil Muknal (home of the famous “crystal maiden” skeleton) and Chiquibul, the largest known cave system in Central America.

An ethnic melting pot with a unique Caribbean culture, Belize’s diversity makes it attractive for travelers with interests in cultural studies and immersion. Archaeological sites like Xunantunich, Lamanai, and Caracol shed light on the ancient Maya civilization that once flourished here. Holbrook’s partnerships with local organizations provide opportunities for meaningful service work projects or cultural exchange, and conservation discussions are flavored by the country’s history and the special relationship between the ancient Maya and their environment. Whether your goal is to study marine life with local scientists, learn about ancient cultures, or relax on its beautiful beaches, Belize offers a wealth of cultural, ecological and marine treasures.

Adventure

Birding

Buildout

Overview

Marine Life

Belize boasts a variety of unspoiled natural habitats both on land and at sea. Its 300 miles of coastline are fringed by mangroves and dotted with 450 cayes and three beautiful coral atolls. Stretching 190 miles, the Belize Barrier Reef is the world’s second largest coral reef and arguably the country’s most prized natural treasure. The reef is one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems, and an absolute must-visit location for snorkelers and divers. Over 500 species of fish and 100 species of coral have been officially researched at the reef, representing just a tiny fraction of the life that dwells under the surface.

Flora & Fauna

The mountain ranges, tablelands, rivers, waterfalls, creeks, lagoons, and tropical rainforests in Belize are all are rich with biodiversity. Although only 50 percent of Belize’s primary broadleaf tropical rainforests escaped the logger’s axe, much of these areas are now protected as nature reserves. This tiny country boasts 4,000 species of tropical plants, harboring a great diversity of animal life such as jaguars, spider monkeys, and bats. Coastal mangrove swamps not only nurture the barrier reef, but also provide shelter for many species of birds including Boat-billed Heron, Reddish Egret, and Red- footed Boobies. It is common to spot as many as 100 species of birds in one day.

Culture & History

Belize boasts several important sites of the earliest pre-Columbian Maya settlements, majestic ruins of the classic period, and examples of post-classic ceremonial construction. Among its most popular ancient Maya archaeological sites are Altún Ha, Xunantunich, and Lamanai. Like many Caribbean locales, Belize is a cultural crossroads and its tiny population is a mosaic of ethnicities. Backgrounds ranging from Maya to British, African, East Indian, Garifuna, and Mexican all contribute to form the distinct culture of Belize. Although officially an English-speaking country, Spanish is a popular second language.

Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

American and Canadian citizens must have a valid passport to enter Belize. U.S. passports must be valid for the duration of your stay in Belize. It’s recommended to have at least six months’ validity from your date of departure, as entry requirements are subject to change without notice. Canadian passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of expected departure from Belize.

A visa is not required for visits up to 30 days.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Belizean Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality.

When leaving Belize there is a departure tax of approximately $40, which is included in the cost of your ticket if you purchase your airfare through Holbrook Travel. If crossing a land border, there is an exit fee of approximately $15 USD ($30 BZD) for U.S. citizens.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Belize, unless you are traveling from an endemic yellow fever area within six weeks prior to entry.

Some physicians recommend that travelers get hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines before visiting Belize.

MALARIA

The CDC warns that travelers to Central America may be at risk for exposure to malaria. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. Prevention is twofold: the use of anti-malarial drugs and the prevention of insect bites. If you choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your physician for a prescription.

CHIKUNGUNYA

Locally transmitted cases of chikungunya have been reported in Belize. Local transmission means that mosquitoes in the area have been infected with chikungunya and are spreading it to people. The CDC recommends that travelers to Central America take the usual precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

ZIKA VIRUS

Locally transmitted cases of Zika virus have been reported in Belize. Local transmission means that mosquitoes in the area have been infected with Zika and are spreading it to people. The CDC recommends that travelers to Belize protect themselves from mosquito bites. As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids. (Please note: Biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen is required if you will be swimming or snorkeling in the ocean.)

Currency

The currency of Belize is the Belizean Dollar.

Electricity

The electrical current in Belize is 110V 60Hz AC. Travelers from the United States do not have to use converters.

Time Zone

The time zone in Belize is Central Time Zone (UTC-06:00).

Belize does not observe Daylight Saving Time.

Departures and arrivals on flight schedules are listed in the local time.

Communications

PHONES

Belize’s country code is +501.

To call Belize (from the U.S.): Dial 011-501-(xx-xxx-xxxx)

To call the United States: Dial 001-(xxx-xxx-xxxx)

Belize is equipped with a modern telephone number service much like the United States. As always, international calling can be expensive so it is recommended to purchase an international pre-paid calling card. Most modern cell phones will work in Belize, however it is recommended to check with your service provider for information on roaming charges, additional fees, and coverage. Local SIM card and cell phone rentals are available at airports and major hotels.

INTERNET

Cyber cafes and WiFi hotspots are quite common in most major destinations. Most hotels also provide data ports for laptop computers.

Snorkeling Guide to Marine Life

Paul Humann

Birds of Tropical America

Steven Hilty

An ornithologist and veteran leader of birding expeditions, Hilty serves up short essays on how to find and better appreciate the dizzying variety of neotropical birds, their habits and habitats, diversity and distribution in this well-loved book.

MAPS

Belize Adventure Map

National Geographic

MAPA travel map of Belize, bordering Guatemala, at a scale of 1:400,000 showing all the national parks, including Tikal, and good topographical relief. Features an inset of Belize City.

GUIDEBOOKS

Moon Handbook Belize

Chicki Mallan & Josh Berman

With a chapter on Tikal, photographs, sketch maps, and good recommendations on where to go and what to do by ex-resident Berman.

Insight Guide Belize

Insight Guides

A profusely illustrated overview of Belize, featuring concise essays by well-regarded authors on natural history and culture, hundreds of photos and maps, and some limited practical information.

Lonely Planet Belize

Carolyn Miller

A practical, comprehensive guide in the popular series.

Lonely Planet Diving & Snorkeling Belize

Tim Rock

This guide to diving and dive sites throughout Belize includes maps, driving directions and safety information, along with descriptions of marine wildlife, diving techniques and nearby attractions.

Footprint Diving the World

Beth Tierney & Shaun Tierney

This beautifully illustrated guide covers 220 favorite dive sites in Australia and the Pacific, Central America, the Red Sea, East Africa, Thailand, Indonesia and the South Pacific. Includes a planning guide and practical diving tips.

NATURAL HISTORY

A Natural History of Belize

Samuel Bridgewater

Presenting the habitats, biodiversity, and ecology of the tropical forest of Belize.

Tropical Nature

Adrian Forsyth & Ken Miyata

A lucid portrait of the tropics as seen by two uncommonly observant and thoughtful field biologists. Its 17 marvelous essays introduce the habitats, ecology, plants and animals of the Central and South American rainforest.

The Last Flight of the Scarlet Macaw, One Woman’s Fight to Save the World’s Most Beautiful Bird

Bruce Barcott

The gripping tale of Sharon Matola’s six-year campaign to stop a dam that would flood the forest home of Belize’s last scarlet macaws.

HISTORY & CULTURE

Maya Art and Architecture

Mary Ellen Miller

An illustrated overview of the art and architecture of the Maya, making use of the latest discoveries at Tikal, Copan and Palenque to demonstrate the range of Maya artistic influence. With 200 illustrations, 50 in color, including site plans, maps, strikingly rendered reconstructions and color photographs of key temples and buildings.

A Brief History of Central America

Hector Perez-Brignoll

A good overview of the region’s economic, political and social history through the 1980s by a professor at the University of Costa Rica. Well-written, informative and concise.

Belize in Focus, A Guide to the People, Politics, and Culture

Ian Peedle

A brief, authoritative guide to the history, cultural heritage, politics and economy of Belize. With maps, photographs and some travel information, it’s an excellent synopsis from an unabashedly left-leaning perspective, strong on facts.

The Maya

Michael Coe

The eighth edition of Coe’s clear, concise and authoritative, illustrated survey of the Maya.

Popol Vuh, The Mayan Book of the Dawn of Life

Dennis Tedlock

The definitive, unabridged collection of creation myths and stories of the Quiche people, fundamental to understanding the worldview of the highland Maya.